“They Mocked Me as a ‘Charity Case’ at the BBQ — By Morning, Their Empire Was on a 30-Day Clock”

hadn’t.

I stepped back from the buffet, smoothed my dress with both hands, and turned toward the side gate that led to the driveway.

“Alyssa, don’t be so dramatic,” Morgan’s voice sliced across the lawn, sharp and bright. “He’s just a kid. God, you’re going to ruin the whole mood.”

Her words fluttered after me like discarded napkins—light, insubstantial,continue reading …